It's the time of the year when we turn attention to planning holiday events. Whether you are hosting a company party, a holiday fund raiser or craft fair, you want to let people now about your event.

What are some steps you need to know to get your event promoted?

Plan - Identify what your goals are, identify your target audience and create a plan to make it happen. Decide the objectives of the event and plan which social media channels you want to use to publicize your event. Not all channels suit every event.

Organize a team - Get your influencers involved. They can help you to spread the word and build anticipation around your event. Provide them with downloadable items for print or email distribution.

Publish - You've got your plan and you know what channels you will use to create your event. Make sure you include all the details.Create images or video to build anticipation. Interview people who have attended past events. Share on all identified channels in your plan.

Frequent updates - You cannot "set it and forget it". Continue to update people about your event. Announce guests or giveaways as they are confirmed. Track your RSVPs. Frequent updates keeps you audience engaged and your event top of mind.

Share - Once published, you can share your events on multiple channels. Encourage your audience to share on their channels. People want to participate. Acknowledge them when they do. If you have sponsors for your event, make sure they are recognized for their support.

Engage - Draw your audience into a conversation. Ask them to share on topics relevant to the event. Create a unique identifier around the event and encourage sharing e.g. #myholidayevent, #BestXmasEver.

Follow Up - Sharing doesn't end when the event is over. Tell people if your event was successful, post images, acknowledge and thank your volunteers and build anticipation for next year's event.

Resources: 

Event Planning Checklist 

Event Planning Guide Book